In architecture, a lintel is a “horizontal structural element” used for various purposes. To the RTF, lintels are a convenient way to get hikers through shallow water. Unfortunately over time they crack and disintegrate. Luckily for us hikers, February work party leader Nick Hamblett and his merry band of volunteers were not deterred by cold water.
Nick reports, “Despite definitely cold temperatures, about a dozen hardy volunteers showed up for the February work party, on the second Saturday. Starting from the RTF shed off Morton Drive, we worked our way clockwise on the trail. Work split into two groups. The first was a truly adventurous group who worked to replace the broken lintels (cement beams) in the creek passing under 250. Their efforts in the cold water that morning are much appreciated, as the passing can now be made with much more confidence, as none of the blocks are missing chunks. The second group got to remain dry the whole time, and cleaned up the trail from the culvert under Hydraulic up to about the first clearing made by the recent stream restoration project. We hacked back some thorns, and re-defined the trail along the restoration project, closing up the temporary trails that were in place for the duration of this project. Ramps to small footbridges were improved, as were drainage channels in some of the muddy spots. Thanks to all of the volunteers, whose efforts continue to improve the trail, a gem of Charlottesville.”